Five Good Entry-Level Road Bikes Under $500: 2019 Picks

Riding a road bicycle is one of the best and most exhilarating exercises you can find. It's a wonderful combination of endurance, speed, and agility. If you're new to riding, or are hoping to get into it, finding a good entry-level road bike at an affordable price is really important.

I know many people who have invested a large sum in a bike only to find out they don't actually enjoy riding it. A beginner road bicycle lets you investigate the sport without investing a fortune.

There are a lot of bikes on the market and it can be confusing. A good entry-level road bike will need efficient components that will ensure the ride is smooth and quick. They also need a light frame and good geometry to let the rider pedal comfortably. With a lower price tag there will be some compromise involved, but those components must still do a decent job.

Finding the Best Entry-Level Bikes for $500 or Less

This article will take a look at five of my favorite entry-level road bicycles, giving a brief review of each one and offering my opinion on why you might consider it. We'll also talk briefly about some specific things you might want to avoid on an inexpensive road bicycle, to steer you away from a dud. Let's get started.

What to Avoid When Buying a Beginner Road Bike

Obviously even the best entry-level road bike come with a lower price tag than a bike for experienced riders. With that comes lower value components, and while that's not necessarily a bad thing you should know what you're getting into. Here are a few tips to help you avoid riding around on a two-wheeled lemon.

Avoid unproven brands

There's a reason why big brands are successful. Some of the best bikes for beginners come from bigger brands like Schwinn and Diamondback. They have the buying power to get deep discounts on componentry, which saves you money in the long run.

Avoid plastic components

I'm not a bike snob. I know that plastic has its place, but I still think it should be avoided on primary components. That means that a good entry-level road bicycle should avoid fully plastic brakes, shifters, and especially derailleurs. They just don't have the resilience that steel and aluminum alloy boast. They bend, snap, and wear out much more quickly. A good road bike doesn't have to skimp on component quality.

Watch for Poor Setup

Sometimes a bike doesn't feel right, and it's not the bicycle's fault at all. Make sure that you set up your ride properly. There are some great online guides on standover height, handlebar position, and things like that. If you're not comfortable, look at those settings first before blaming your bicycle. Even cheaper bikes can benefit from adjustments like this.

Based around a super strong 4130 chromoly frame, it's an entry-style road bicycle that will please even experienced riders. The alloy 700c wheelset is light and spins really well for the price, and the Shimano Claris shifters and derailleurs are quite smooth shifting when tuned nicely.

It's a light and agile platform, quick to start, and fast on long straightaways. Personally, I think they are very attractive bicycles too, with a vintage diamond frame look and subtle retro paint.

It's also a breeze to upgrade components if you find yourself outgrowing them. This is one of the better entry-level road bikes on the market. Available in black or white and a variety of frame sizes.

Tommaso is not yet a very well-established or recognized brand, but it's one you should consider. The company consistently puts out an excellent product, including some awesome beginner-level road bikes like the Fascino here.

The Tommaso Fascino is a lightweight road bike platform and an excellent value; an easy pick for best road bike for entry level riders. Like many of the competitors in this bracket, this bike uses a compact and strong 6061 aluminum frame, and many other components from high-quality brands—stuff you'd only expect on higher end models.

The Shimano Tourney integrated shifters, cranks and derailleurs are precise and a lot of fun to use, offering 24 speeds in total. The bike ranges in size from 47cm up to 61cm, and it comes with a standard adjustable seatpost, so there's a frame to fit everyone.

Note: this one doesn't come with pedals, so that's the only additional thing you'll need to pick up. On the whole, this is a light, responsive, and gorgeous entry-level road bicycle well under $500, and you should check it out.

3. Mercier Galaxy SC1: An incredibly affordable beginner road bike

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Mercier is not necessary a name you'll recognize, but they're an older brand, and they boast some of the best entry-level road bikes in the business right now. I particularly recommend them if you don't have a lot to spend. Their prices are very affordable despite offering a decent set of components. The Mercier SC1 Galaxy road bike is a simple, aluminum-framed option with great reviews.

Don't let the name confuse you, these bikes are not French, but they're solid with great customer reviews.

It's the kind of bike you'll want to see up close. It has a low key appearance that's not too flashy. With integrated handlebar-mounted shifters and a 6061 aluminum frame, it's light and responsive. The Tourney rear shifters are basic, but if tuned properly they'll work great for you. The bike weighs in at around 24 pounds.

The bike is let down by the so-so linear pull brakes, but you can upgrade those. The double-walled alloy rims make the bike look great and keep the weight respectable. It's definitely one of my favorite inexpensive entry-level road bicycles out there today.

4. Schwinn Volare: Deeply inexpensive, fast and fun

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I've spent a lot of time building and repairing Schwinns and they consistently impress me. They're well-built and crafted. The budget-friendly Schwinn Volare is a great example of that. It has a slick aluminum frame with oversized tubing for strength and rigidity. This is a snappy bike that you'll love zipping around town on.

It comes with basic but intuitive Shimano A050 shifters and derailleurs. You have 14 speeds, which is more than enough for most situations. The shifters and brakes are not integrated.

The brakes are alloy linear pull callipers, which operate better than many mechanical disc brakes. The 18 inch medium frame is good for someone around 5'6 to 5'11. The wheels are quick-release, so be sure to pick up a cable lock to keep them safe too. It's a good road bicycle for beginners that's not a huge investment, but will be a good entry point.

5. Nashbar AL1 Sora: A cheap road bike with premium components

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Nashbar is another brand that's less well-known, but it's gaining notoriety by producing an excellent quality bicycle with great components for a decent price. They're primarily makers of cyclocross, mountain, and road bikes. The exciting and attractive Nashbar AL1 Sora is one of the best entry-level road bikes, albeit a bit more expensive than the others listed here.

This bike has a full aluminum frame that's lightweight and extremely responsive. Shimano Sora derailleurs and shifters are a cut above what you'll usually find at this price point, and shifting is a breeze. It has dual pivot caliper brakes that stop you on a dime. It comes in silver or matte black/blue.

I encourage you to research Nashbar a bit to get to know the brand. The AL1 is among the best road bikes for entry-level riding on the market.

What Are Some Quality Indicators for Beginner Bikes

Some questions to ask:

• Where was the bike was made?

• Is it a recognizable brand?

• Do you recognize the components?

• What do other customers have to say about it?

• What's the frame material? Steel, aluminum?

If you're considering an entry-level road bicycle outside of this list, make sure you know what you're getting into.

Check where the bike is made. Many Chinese bikes are not very trustworthy. That said, some Chinese factory bikes are fantastic.

Check the brand. Some bikes are "brandless", and that's a risky thing. A big brand is an indicator of quality control, and something to look for.

Make a list of the components, and then research them. If most of the components are "no-name", watch out. If you're not sure of a component brand, post a comment below and I can let you know if it's any good.

Customer reviews are awesome. There are a lot of enthusiastic bicycle fans like myself that buy, ride, build, and review bicycles from all over. Read blog reviews and forum posts for a better understanding of the bike you're interested in.

Check the frame material. Steel is generally the cheapest material, followed by aluminum and chromoly, and then carbon fiber and titanium. At this price point if you're able to find aluminum or chromoly it's probably a great deal.

If you're still stumped and looking for more indicators, please leave a comment and I'll try to help you out.

Brand Poll:

Buying a beginner's road bike, would you trust an unknown brand if it had good reviews?

What do you think of these entry-level road bicycles?

No HTML is allowed in comments, but URLs will be hyperlinked. Comments are not for promoting your articles or other sites.

sending

jb

21 months ago

Is raleigh a good brand?

Jamie

2 years ago

Hi,

I'm looking for a bike that I can use pretty much daily to commute to the grocery store and so forth.

In the past, I had a Miyata 10 speed that I really liked. I don't actually tour anymore, so I don't need a bike that highend.

I want fenders, at least one rack and a bottle holder.

pabster

3 years ago

Hello,

Great article! I am looking for a bike to use for fitness. I am going to be timing myself on routes, so my first thought was a road bike like these. However, some of the roads and paths in my area are a bit on the rough side and I am worried about possibly damaging my wheels. Obviously, I would try to avoid any major potholes. Anyways, I started looking into cyclocross bikes because they can handle more of that, but they are so expensive! I have two questions. First, is this a valid concern? do I need to worry about some rough sidewalks and roads on road bikes like these? Second, if so, can you recommend any stronger road bikes or any cyclocross bikes around $500? Thanks a bunch!

AUTHOR

Bikes

3 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi MIchaelRiley, I'd opt for the Specialized, great brand. Take it in to a bike shop to replace the chain and do a tune-up. It'll set you back $50 or so, but it's worth it if you're buying a used bike. :)

AUTHOR

Bikes

3 years agofrom Vancouver

I'd go for the Giordano or the Tommaso. Probably the Tommaso is better for you, though it's at the edge of your budget. Hope that helps!

AUTHOR

Bikes

3 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Erica, the Forza is a great but higher priced model, actually as good or better than those listed in this article!

MichaelRiley

3 years ago

New Question sir. I'd like to do something more, but at this time my budget, and more so my wife won't let me heh.

I imagine each of these could be talked down in price slightly. But for the money, which would be the best choice and why? Which would be your last choice?

I used to own a Raleigh 531 tubing. It was super comfy in short rides, but I'd tire out over 10 miles. Yes I'm out of shape! I want something I can increase my milage. Up to 40-50 Mile trips.

With time I'll upgrade what I can. I would like to buy one by the 08/07/2015

MichaelRiley

3 years ago

G'day sir. I had a 90's Raleigh steel frame 531 Tubing that I liked a lot, although just a little small. Mostly road it around town for transportation. 2-8 Miles at a time.

I had to sell it when we moved. I want to get another bike. 2-500 dollars be it new, or Craiglists. I now work about 18 miles from home, and would like a bike to ride to work 1, 2 times a week. In addition to in town use.

Which of these would be your top two selections, and if Craiglists, should I be looking for something like my Raleigh, or something different?

I was told at the bike shop I should be on a bike 54-56cm.

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Jon,

Bikesdirect is a good site to buy bikes from, and I've had good experiences with JensonUSA, Nashbar and Amazon as well. That said, I've worked at a bike shop before, and there's no comparing the service and build quality you get at a great shop.

Here's what I'd suggest. Buy that Dawes (components are much better), and take it to your LBS and pay them to put it together and tune it up for you, should cost a lot less than the $200 you've saved! Best of both worlds.

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi bucklejo77,

I'm not familiar with the Dawes, but wow, great components! Tiagra is great. Alex rims, aluminum frame... on paper it looks great.

The Century 1 is a fantastic choice too, though I've never see it below $700. It'd probably be my top choice, a known quantity.

The Forza 4 is a step down from the Century and the Dawes, so it's hard to compare them. Basic shifters and components.

Hope that all helps!

Jon

4 years ago

Would you be able to offer suggestions regarding purchasing online vs. local bike shop. It seems like the bikes you reviews are online. I am considering the Trek 1.1 from the local bike shop vs. Dawes lightning 2300 from Bikesdirect for $200 less, but without the service and support of the local bike shop. The Dawes also has the Tiagra/105 components vs. the Claris of the Trek. Are Bikesdirect bikes legit? Thanks

football11

4 years ago

Great Good Article. quite helpful

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Joey777,

I find the road bike riding position to be pretty comfortable, it's just a matter of getting used to the style. If you don't like leaning forward so much, you can always swap in some riser handlebars.

Inches and cm are just different ways of measuring the frame size, usually done by measuring the height of the seat tube from the top down to the midway point on the bottom bracket. A 58cm or 22 inch frame should be about right for you... I'm 6'2 and that's around what I'd order.

erinshelby

4 years agofrom United States

Helpful for folks interested in going car-free or car-lite!

Joey777

4 years ago

Hi!

This is a great resource! I am a total novice, looking to get a road bike for weekend riding and casual commuter trips. I'm leaning towards the Vilano Shadow based on the Amazon reviews.

Is that good choice for someone who isn't hardcore and is looking to be comfortable on a bike (vs. crouching and aerodynamic)? I understand the racing position gets pretty uncomfortable after a time.

I am also confused about sizing. I'm 6'1" and don't know if 58cm or 22-inch will work. What is the typical size for someone like me and what's the difference between cm vs. inches for sizing?

Dr Pradip Hira

4 years agofrom Ahmedabad-India

i want to buy new one for me too but I will wait for more 2 months as here its monsoon time and at that time I will again refer your hub, as my budget is also around $400 - $500

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

I'd say a hybrid bike might be what you'd want, they have thinner tires so your pedalling will be more efficient, but they can still handle some trails. The Diamondback Edgewood might be a good choice, or the Schwinn Discover. You'll probably want a 16 - 17 inch frame.

Tina RP

4 years agofrom Papillion, Nebraska

This was a great article, thank you. Can you give me some suggestions for a women's starter road bike. I have a condition that riding really helps. Currently I am only able to ride about 30 miles per week but want to increase that greatly. I am riding a Schwinn mountain bike. My area is rather hilly, I am slowly getting stronger (very slowly) and have difficulty on some of those hills. We do have great bike trails though, mostly concrete. I will continue with my mountain bike for the limestone trail I love, unless I could do it with a road bike. On a tight budget! I am 5'8.5", I would also appreciate your help with sizing. Thank you!

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Alan, sorry for the late reply. Motobecane is generally awesome! They're a neat French brand with nice stuff, but they're a relative unknown around here. The Mirage SL has a nice set of components. I don't see Sora in the specs though, I'm seeing Claris and 2400, and that is a definite step down. The carbon fork is nice, though. I'd consider the SL to be roughly comparable to the Giordano or the Vilano reviewed here. If you're thinking about moving up to 105, I'd recommend it! It's a noticeable difference.

AUTHOR

Bikes

4 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Jimmy, The Wellington 3.0 is a bike I've noticed, but I haven't had a chance to put it through its paces. Just based on specs it's fairly solid. I'm unsure about the Sora / 2200 mixture in the drivetrain, that could end up being finicky. But with a carbon fork and an alloy frame it could be a steal. If you give it a whirl, please come back and let me know what you think of it!

John

4 years agofrom New Brunswick, Canada

Nice review article. I find the biggest failing right now for bargain basement bikes is the rear hub. I think they all come from the same factory. They're cast slightly out of alignment somewhere and as a result the cones keep losing up. For a clydesdale like me that is a disaster.

Jimmy

4 years ago

What do you think of the Windsor Wellington 3.0? How does its components compare with those on the rest of this list?

Alan

5 years ago

What are your thoughts on the Motobecane Mirage SL. Bikes direct has it listed for $399 with a sora Rd and shim fd. Shim cassette, sti brakes and shifters with weinman wheels.

I know this isn't a top if the line bike, but it seems trustworthy enough to last a few years and maybe some sprints in between.

Done a lot of research and for this price I haven't found anything comparable unless I jump into the $700+ range. Which that seems pointless since for a Lil more price you get into shim 105. I figure I skimp now and save for 6 months and get something in the $1500-2000 range.

ultimately I need a reliable commuter but still be able to be novice competitive and club rides.

TimmyB44

5 years ago

Thank you! I will check that one out. :)

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Timmy, if she's looking to do triathlons, I'd go for the Tommaso Imola, actually. It's a really versatile bike that's got a great stance for tris, especially if you get some tri bars. At 5'3 she'll probably want the 47cm model, which is good for that height.

TimmyB44

5 years ago

Hello, and thank you for a wonderful review. My wife and I are avid runners, and love to bike, as well. We have entry-level hybrids Trek's, which meet 99% of our needs. However, she wants to run a few less road races, and compete in a few more tri's, mostly sprint distance. The only one she has done, she did well, but obviously, the Trek hybrid was not the best choice for this! She is only about 5'3" tall, so it doesn't sound like the Schwinn is on the list. What entry-level road bike do you feel would suit her best? Thanks for your advice!

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

I've never heard of Scorpio before! A bit of searching suggests it's a lower end, vintage brand that doesn't exist anymore. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

Joey

5 years ago

Hi I am planning to buy my first road bike, my friend is lending his old one, but the frame is not so familiar. What can you say about scorpio road bike frames? where is it made from? Thanks

Ana Maria Orantes

5 years agofrom Miami Florida

Thank you for your article about the top 5 entry level road. Bikes. I like the information . You did a fantastic job about the bikes Mr. bikesbikesbikes.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Australian bike, superficially quite similar to the Vilano reviewed above. It has the same A050 shifters as the Vilano and both Schwinns, which are very basic but intuitive. I have no idea of build, frame or ride quality, since I've never seen one up close (being a North American). If you go for it, let me know how you like it!

Gareth

5 years ago

What do you think of momentum r120

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Kristine, what you're describing is perfect for any of the bikes listed, really. For flat riding, you'll want a good gearing range and a more aggressive riding position so you can hit higher speeds. I'd give the Giordano Libero a look, since they have a wide range of frame options, including male / female sized, and good price tag.

Kristine

5 years ago

Hi, thank you for the informative article. Can you suggest which may be best for the weekend riders, ranging 20 to 50 miles. We live by the beach so it is mostly flatter and windy. Thanks!

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Scott, yeah the Nashbar is the best of the bunch in this price range, for sure. What kind of racing are you going to be doing specifically?

I like Bikes Direct, definitely a good place to get a deal, but I'd caution you to research the individual brands carefully. They tend to get surplus stock from a lot of different companies, so also read up on whether they're going to have paint defects or something.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Yes, the Nashbar is a capable bike for triathlons for sure, though you might want to add some triathlon bars to make your life easier! I do like Bikes Direct, although I will say they're a mixed bag quality-wise. Research the individual brands carefully, since they have a number of different suppliers.

scott

5 years ago

as far as for racing, would the nashbar be the best? also, what about some of these bikes online from sites like bike direct? it seems like you can get a pretty good deal on those. thoughts?

Thanks,

Scott

keith

5 years ago

i did my first sprint triathlon with a 1978 motobecane nomad, needless to say it wasnt much fun. i enjoyed and am looking to do a standard triathlon next summer. mostly im just a recreational rider though. would the nashbar be my best bet? also it seems hard to find them, and clues where to get one. also what do you think of the bikes from bikes direct.

Thanks,

Scott

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

I'm not familiar with how hilly DC is, but I'd say the Vilano is a great all-around bike, and it's unisex. How tall is she?

collette

5 years ago

I'd like to buy my recent college grad daughter a road bike to ride around the DC area. Which one of the above would you recommend?

Eddie Camarillo

5 years agofrom Portland, Oregon

Thanks for the informative and straightforward article. After reviewing this and a few other similar "round-ups," I placed an order on Amazon for the Giordano. The owner reviews were the tipping point, of the 65 or so reviews, the only negative ones were from people reacting to shipping damage, tire failures and issues related to improper assembly or lack of tuning. While I will assemble the bike myself, I will take it in for tuning before hitting the road. Hopefully, I will remember to report back in on my personal experience. Thanks again for helping to make the internet useful.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Matteo, yes that's actually a pretty similar bike. It's a Vilano alright, but it's one 'rung' lower on the quality ladder, if that makes sense. The primary difference is in the derailleurs, the brakes, the crankset, the pedals and a few fit and finish items, all of which are much better on the 'branded' version. I think you might be disappointed by the cheaper version, but that's just my take on it. I hope that helps!

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi there, yes I have heard of Polygon before, they are an Indonesian brand and they're quite good! Even at the lowest end (price) they have mostly brand name components, sealed hubs and a great warranty. Great looking bikes too. So yes I think it's worth it for sure. Sorry for the late reply, I've been away!

mco2808

5 years ago

Thanks for the great article! I want to buy the buy the Vilano and I've found this cheaper version offered by a bike shop but I am not an expert and I don't understand if the 100$ discount is due only to the lack of brand or what. What do you think? thanks!! Matteo

Hi Island Beginner, yeah it's tough in Canada. I think the Libero ships to Canada, but then there's shipping, duty and taxes. Best bet might be to ship it to 'Ship Happens' or another similar outfit in northern Washington and hop across the border to pick it up personally.

Island Beginner

5 years ago

The Giordano Libero keeps popping up on lists of great entry level bikes, but I haven't found anywhere in Vancouver(ish) to buy one. Any suggestions? In the US, Walmart has a "Genesis G500", which comes from the same manufacturer and appears to be essentially the same bike - but Canadian Walmart doesn't stock it.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Sam, I'm with the naysayers. The Denali isn't a bike I'd personally trust. I'm sure it's not horrible, I've just heard mixed things like you have. For a little bit more you'll get a lot more bike.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Jerome, my favorite spot is Ride On Again on Broadway. Very affordable name brand stuff, unpretentious staff.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Keith, I'd recommend the Nashbar. It's the priciest, but it's also the lightest and most 'touring' friendly, meaning you won't be punished on that long ride. I'd also recommend getting a good leather saddle, like a Brooks. After the break in period, they're the most comfortable for long rides by far.

Keith

5 years ago

Which would be your top recommendation for regular 40-50 mile rides? I live in a small town with plenty of scenic highway routes and I'd like to start getting into much longer rides (I'm on a mountain bike now).

Jerome

5 years ago

Hey I noticed that you are from Vancouver. I don't know anything about bikes but I'm interested in trying cycling for exercise or at the very least use it to commute from one place to another. Do you have any suggestions for places to look at bikes?

samwise

5 years ago

How about a genali dmc for a first road bike on a tight budget ? I have been looking at the reviews and there are fairly mixed. The experienced ones think that its a complete failure but there are more people who do recommend it for a novice.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi LuisB: of the bikes above, I'd probably recommend the Giordano. You might consider a cyclocross or touring bike if you're going 'off road' on that trail at any point. The Diamondback Steilacoom is a good one, but it's above $500.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi John, The Interval Elite is a beauty! It's more of a hybrid bike in geometry, but it's road oriented, if that makes sense. A mix of Tiagra and 105 drivetrain, and a pretty light frame. It'd make a great light touring bike or commuter.

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

Pedro: Yes, it's a great bike! The carbon fibre front fork doesn't make a huge difference, but the Sora drivetrain components do. Also sealed bottom bracket, formula hubs, it's a smooth running bike and a step up from the Vilano I've reviewed here (but also costs more, of course!)

Pedro

5 years ago

Is the vilano 3.0 forza a good entry level bike?

john

5 years ago

your thoughts on the 2013 diamondback intervaal elite.

LuisB

5 years ago

Some friends and I are planning to do a 100 mile trail in about 3 months. Which road bike would you recommend, new and second hand, under $500?

AUTHOR

Bikes

5 years agofrom Vancouver

The Nashbar has nicer components, it's easier to upgrade and a better choice if you get more into cycling ( longer rides, races, etc). But the Vilano is a great choice for commuting that distance and it's a lot less expensive. I'd go with the Vilano. Hope that helps!

cyclingtoschool

5 years ago

Should I get the Vilano Aluminum or the Nashbar Al-1. I would like to use the bike mainly to get to school. The route has some small hills and inclines and it is about a 5 mile ride.

AUTHOR

Bikes

6 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Rob, excellent question. They're really close, similarly equipped and almost the same weight. Personally I'd go with the Giordano. Slightly better drivetrain and shifters. With regular tune ups either one would last a couple of years easily. Hope that helps!

Rob

6 years ago

If you had to pick between the Vilano and the Giordano which on would you go with? I'm a student on a seriously tight budget and hope one of these might last me a couple years, thanks.

AUTHOR

Bikes

6 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi Danny, thanks for the respectful comments. I do agree the 'one size' thing is frustrating. And there are definitely tradeoffs at lower prices. For anyone accustomed to an $800+ road bike, riding any of these bikes would be tough, like switching from a Lexus to a Honda compact.

But don't discount Schwinn or other big manufacturers (all of whom have full warranties). My sister in law is still riding the Schwinn road bike I recommended she buy 4 years ago. It's perfect for her and rides great still today. And reading the customer comments on the bikes I listed, there are a lot more happy, satisfied riders than not.

Danny Dydek

6 years agofrom Pittsburgh, PA

I'm going to have to respectfully agree with CyclingFitness. While it's true many shops and manufacturers overcharge for cheap products, no one undercharges for quality products. Schwinn was a great name in bicycles until about 20 years ago when they went bankrupt numerous times and were eventually bought out by Pacific -- *not* a great name in bicycles. Even the Schwinns you list here only come in one size -- fantastic if you're an average 5'6" to 5'11" ish, not so great if you're anywhere outside that range.

Many shops have payment programs; if your budget is that tight, start paying on the bike at the beginning of the off-season when you won't want to ride anyway. By spring, you'll have a good bike that fits, with a good warranty, and a relationship with the place that will eventually be doing the repairs on your bike. All three of those things can't be offered by mass-market bicycle retailers.

AUTHOR

Bikes

6 years agofrom Vancouver

I was a bike shop mechanic for 3 years building and repairing mostly entry level bikes (many Schwinns, actually), and I take pride in my recommendations. I dislike thin, low information articles too. I've had very positive feedback from readers on my bike related articles.

As I mentioned before, I think it's really about what your expectations and needs are, and our opinions differ here I think. I've put friends and family on $300 -$400 road bikes and they've been totally happy. They have no intention of upgrading at any point. They just want a decent quality bike that will last a few years and let them ride recreationally on the weekends. That's what this price range is meant for, and I think it's great. :)

Liam Hallam

6 years agofrom Nottingham UK

I've read quite a lot of hubs and articles on the net regarding best bikes under 500 dollars or best cheap road bikes as there are a lot out there already and am very dubious of the information that is portrayed. Many of the high ranking articles from sites like squidoo are from internet marketers trying to make a few dollars out of beginners who know very little and potentially miss-selling as a result based on very duff information in my opinion.

It seems North America is embracing the disc-brake craze for road and cx more than us Europeans. We have cheap discs on mtb's but aside from a few brand's they're yet to go mainstream on the road except the odd touring bike. Seems very strange for them to integrate into road cycling.

I worked in retail for a company that produces low price budget road bikes and the amount I saw come back to the shops based on componentry was quite shocking even though fitted with shimano equipment and to upgrade important components like the driverchain over time will simply not be ideal hence the Nashbar bike with full entry level Sora being the best option in my opinion. Anything with 7 speed such as the Schwinn featured will require full upgrade of the groupset and therefore isn't really a cost effective long term option for upgrading if you consider prices for a new groupset compared to the cost of the bike.

I started with a bike at the bottom of the pile and have built up from there. I started with a bike that cost around 7-800 dollars and from experience that's the point I would recommend anyone to enter the sport at unless they're buying second hand. I would put very little trust in bikes at that point

AUTHOR

Bikes

6 years agofrom Vancouver

Hi! My target audience is beginners to road cycling, or those with limited budgets. Not everyone can afford the $800+ that a bike shop charges for a basic bike.

I respectfully disagree about your point on price. It's totally possible to find a good road bike for under $500, provided you're open to the concept of upgrading components over time. Keep in mind you're coming from the perspective of an experienced rider. It's all about your expectations. Besides, I've owned $1000++ bicycles in the past and believe me, price is not always a great indicator of quality.

Regarding brakes again I disagree, mechanical disc brakes are almost always inferior to caliper in my experience, especially when tuned properly. Hydraulic is a another story, but it's a non factor at this price point.

It may be a Canadian thing, but I've seen disc brakes popping up on entry level road bikes lately, touted as an 'upgrade'. I wanted to address it, since as I mentioned before I don't think they stop as well.

Anyway, thanks for the read and comments, glad to see another cycling fan here.

Liam Hallam

6 years agofrom Nottingham UK

Out of the set you've given I would only make considerations of the Nashbar bike on your list. It's very difficult to produce a good quality bike for 500 dollars and therefore sacrifices need to be made. I would personally bump it to the top of your list and as a road cyclist it's the only one really worth any consideration.

Nashbar is also quite a well known brand in North America although not a mainstream manufacturer.

I'm a little worried that you talk about disc brakes. Very few road bikes will have disc brakes and certainly not unless you're starting to look at touring or cyclocross bikes around the 1000 dollar plus region.

You will find that disc brakes are better than a caliper for stopping- however for road riding a caliper brake is perfectly adequate to the task so there's no need to even consider disc's.

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